Premier League Weekend Preview: Round 31

tottenham Hotspur v Portsmouth

Fresh from their astounding 4-4 stalemate against Chelsea in the midweek league fixture, Spurs are showing no signs of playing out the remainder of the season in a meaningless fashion. In fact, it seems as if the players are now playing for places and trying to impress the manager for next season. Skipper Robbie Keane was irate last weekend having been substituted after scoring – and it was he who scored that magnificent late goal to secure a point for Tottenham against Chelsea on Wednesday. That performance just goes to show how far Spurs have come since the arrival of genius manager Juande Ramos. Battling and brave Tottenham have been recently, especially in beating Chelsea in the Carling Cup Final. Not only that, but despite crashing out of the Uefa Cup on penalties, Spurs did overturn a 1-0 deficit in order to force extra time against a very good PSV side. All this adds up to a promising second half of the season for Spurs and though they will still finish mid-table come the end of the Premiership campaign, they have much to be proud of.

Uefa Cup-chasing Portsmouth currently occupy that much-wanted sixth spot in the Premier League, having beaten hot-contenders Aston Villa last week. Portsmouth’s mid-season dip in form, similar of that of Blackburn’s, suggested they may not make Europe come May, however they have recently improved their performance to push up the table. But one man in particular has helped their cause. Jermain Defoe has been in exceptional form for Pompey from day 1 of joining them. His wonderful goals have helped Portsmouth up the table and it will be he who will be vitally important in maintaining this sixth spot for the remainder of the season. Anoher new signing, Milan Baros, has worked reasonably well alongside Defoe, showing at times the flair and link-up play he did at Liverpool. Portsmouth, like Spurs, look set to finish the season on a high.

With such a positive end to the season expected from both these sides, it is quite difficult to predict who will win this game. Portsmouth have thrived away from home this season and it is their performances on their travels that have been the main factor in leading them into such a good position in the League. Spurs on the other hand have improved all-round since the arrival of Ramos. As for who will win this game, I think it will be a very close contest with plenty of goals. Nonetheless, if anyone is to emerge as the winner then it will probably be Portsmouth.
Prediction: 2-3

Aston Villa v Sunderland

Martin O’Neill’s Villa side lost sixth-place to Portsmouth last weekend, a game which pretty much summed up their performances over the last few games. Villa have slipped at such a vital time of the season and they will be really looking to win most of their remaining games in order to reclaim that European spot. Ashley Young in particular has been playing quite well recently, but most of his moves and shots have eventually come to nothing. Agbonlahor and Carew have been quite ineffective of late too. If Villa are to win their next few games, they must rediscover that killer-instinct in front of goal.

I tip Sunderland to stay up this season. They deserve to stay in the Premiership due to their ‘never-say-die’ spirit and their magnificent performances in front of their home crowd. The last two times the Black Cats were in the Premier League, I don’t think they made much of an attempt to secure their top-flight status. But this season, under the influential leadership of the ever-feisty Roy Keane, Sunderland have thrived under the pressure and have kept on winning games at home. With pressure so intense at this stage of the season, it is vital Sunderland win some more games at home. Going by their home performances so far this season, I’m sure they will be able to achieve at least two more victories in front of their home fans.

This is Villa’s time to put their patchy form behind them and beat a Sunderland side who rarely perform on their travels. For the Black Cats, I think that all away games are just a bonus for them, and ifor that reason, f they do lose this game, I don’t think it will disrupt Keane’s planning over-much.
Prediction: 2-0

Blackburn Rovers v Wigan Athletic

Blackburn Rovers still have an outside chance of making Europe come the end of the campaign, but one thing is for sure, they will have to stop conceding goals and start scoring more. If anything separates Blackburn from their fellow Uefa Cup contenders, it is goal difference. If Rovers do manage to end the season on a high, it would be bitterly disappointing for them to lose out on Uefa Cup football due to goal difference. Yet, this is the way it seems to be going. If you look at the table, it is possible for Rovers to find those four points which would enable them to capture sixth place, but with a goal difference of only plus two, compared to Portsmouth’s and Villa’s plus 13, the question is, can Rovers score enough goals during the rest of the season?

Six points above the drop zone, it seems as if the job is done for Wigan and they are safe. But a closer glance at the table does show there are eight games remaining this campaign and six points will not ensure safety come May. However, their six-point advantage over their counterparts will give the Latics some confidence, knowing they do have some breathing space down at the bottom. And their recent performances reflect a solid position in the league for the moment. If Wigan can just keep rock-hard at the back, they will stay safe.

Blackburn are quite good in front of their home fans and this is an occasion for them to shine and improve that goal difference. Rovers are much better than Wigan and though the Latics may feel they are a long way away from relegation now, a defeat here could leave them reeling again. Both these sides have among the poorest crowds in the league, yet memories of their last meeting, which ended 5-3 in favour of Wigan, could boost the attendance this Easter weekend.
Prediction: 2-0

Bolton Wanderers v Manchester City

I am one who strongly disagrees with Gary Megson’s decision to rest all his best side when they played that Uefa Cup fixture against Sporting Lisbon a couple of weeks ago. It seems stupid to deliberately pick a weak side when Bolton had every chance to go through in the competition. After all, the same squad did work extremely hard to qualify for the competition in the first place. And a good Uefa Cup run could have actually helped Bolton’s League form. Imagine how much confidence they would have gained if they managed to reach the semi-finals of the Uefa Cup! That would easily have given them a psychological advantage over their relegation buddies.

However, that is now in the past and Bolton now only have the depressing thought of staying up in the Premier League instead of chasing glory. As for league survival, it seems increasingly unlikely that the Trotters will stay up. Every game they lose pulls them further away from safety and on paper it looks as if they will be unable to win enough games to stay up. Bolton are a very physical side and it is admittedly quite hard to score against them, but sides currently in the top-ten should find it easy to carve their way through Bolton’s shaky defence. Saying that, Bolton can be a good side as showed during their European adventure this season, excelling against the likes of Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid. Such good performances, if reproduced, could keep them out of trouble for the remainder of the season.

Manchester City’s win over Spurs last weekend continued their recent inconsistent form but gave them a much needed victory to keep alive hopes that they can still finish sixth. Sven’s side have slipped recently yet are only two points behind sixth-placed Portsmouth. And with Petrov back from suspension, it seems as if City could make a final push for that spot. Benjani must score some goals though if City are to finish the season well.

I think Man City have enough in them to beat a struggling Bolton side. The Trotters’ physical approach will put City off to some extent, but it is about time Elano and Benjani showed some quality and helped City win. With such a threatening outlook on paper, City should win.
Prediction: 1-3

Middlesbrough v Derby County

Still not safe from relegation trouble, Middlesbrough will look to win a couple of games to ensure Premiership safety. Surprisingly, Boro are just as safe as Wigan are at the moment. That is thanks to a struggling start to the campaign. But with defender Wheater being called up to the England squad, it just shows how strong Boro have become at the back. Tuncay is settling into English football and Afonso Alves will score soon. Boro should stay up.

Derby County are terrible away from home yet they have improved slightly since Christmas. Nonetheless, anyone playing the Rams will feel they already have three points in the bag because Derby don’t have much flair going forward. This could be a chance for Derby to claim another point in the league.

Middlesbrough are much better than Derby and three points here will help move them further away from relegation. Boro should win this game, but not by a terrific score-line.
Prediction: 2-0

Newcastle United v Fulham

Newcastle United have still got the second worst goal difference in the Premiership, but they are now four points above the relegation zone. Still without a win under Kevin Keegan, one wonders why he was appointed manager in the first place. However, Newcastle have improved game by game recently and they look capable of winning a few games before the end of the season. Michael Owen scored last time out and he will be the shining light in securing safety this season. Once Newcastle find a win, I think they will go on a good run, because they really aren’t half as bad as Bolton or Fulham.

Fulham are terrible away from home and despite a victory last time out, I don’t think they will be able to beat a Newcastle side who have a very passionate crowd at St James’ Park as well some top quality players. Fulham have bought some decent players during the January transfer window, but the likes of Litmanen still haven’t played for the club. It still looks very desperate for the Cottagers.

This is a six-pointer if I’ve ever seen one. Newcastle have the better quality players though and the crowd are desperate to see their side win under King Kev. Fulham’s away form says it all and the best they will get here is a point.
Prediction: 2-1

Reading v Birmingham City

Another six-pointer here and this time it is Reading who will be looking to perform in front of their home crowd. A stunning goal against Liverpool last weekend wasn’t enough for the Royals to go on and secure anything from the game so they will now have to win games like this in order to help them stay up. Reading have been very inconsistent this season and this looks set to continue for the remainder of the campaign. But it is this sort of game where they have to win if they are to remain in the league. So long as they can score, they should have no problems.

Birmingham haven’t been that bad of late and they could still survive come May. They are a battling side who can score goals and they have as good a chance as anyone to remain in the Premiership. Alex McLeish is a top-quality manager and his expertise could help Birmingham stay up.

This will be a draw. Both sides are trying to avoid the drop and both are capable of remaining in the league. Though a point won’t help either side much, it will be acceptable. If anyone is to win this game, I think it will be Birmingham.
Prediction: 1-1

Everton v West Ham United

Defeated last time out, Everton are now on the back foot in terms of securing that final Champions League spot. They are almost certainly going to finish fifth or fourth, but if they want to pip Liverpool to that fourth spot, they will have to beat West Ham here and then Liverpool next week. Moyes’ side were always going to lose a game after going on an exceptional run of late, but they have to get back on track almost immediately now. With Yakubu and Johnson though, surely they will be able to torment West Ham?

West Ham ended a rotten run of three consecutive 4-0 defeats to beat Blackburn last weekend and get back on track. The Hammers aren’t playing for much but pride now and they will be looking to beat Everton here to give their fans something to shout about. Last weekend’s young hero Sears could be a vital player again in this game.

I think Everton have much more quality than the Hammers and have more to play for. West Ham have a meaningless remainder of the season whereas Everton are chasing Champions League football. Everton should win this game comfortably.

Prediction: 2-0

Manchester United v Liverpool

Super Sunday kicks-off with League leaders United facing in-form Liverpool. United opened a three point cushion up at the top with a 2-0 win over Bolton in the midweek fixture. Cristiano Ronaldo scored yet another couple of goals to help his side’s cause and he will be a dangerous threat during this game. On the downside, it seems every time the Red Devils have claimed top-spot this season, they have let it go almost immediately. And a game against in-form Liverpool could see that trend continue. United will have to be very aware of Liverpool’s dangerous forward play. Having said that, Ferguson’s side have a terrific trio themselves, with Ronaldo, Rooney and Tevez linking up well going forward. If Rooney and Tevez can perform, United should win.

The league’s in-form side, Liverpool head into this game knowing they have a good chance of beating Manchester United thanks to their recent performances. Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard have been exceptional and with Rafa Benitez shuffling his pack less often nowadays, Liverpool are a team gelling together well. Yet again, I think Mascherano will be the one to watch out for here. He is a world-class player and does his job perfectly. Playing in that sort of Carrick/Hargreaves role, he is able to mop up anything United throw at Liverpool in central midfield. Who knows, if Liverpool can win their next three league games, they could be in the mix again for the title!

Both sides are very good and this promises to be a very tight game. However, I think Liverpool are in good form and shape to secure a win here. It is at Old Trafford and Liverpool have been very poor against United in the League over the last few seasons, but I think that will change here.

Prediction: 0-1

Chelsea v Arsenal

Chelsea did have a chance of going level on points with Arsenal during their midweek fixture against Spurs, but a 4-4 draw left the Blues still third and two points behind the Gunners. However, a win over Arsenal will take Chelsea up to second. Chelsea haven’t lost at home in the League in over four years, something which they will look to continue. Their 4-4 draw to Spurs shows their capability going forward, but some weaknesses at the back. Another important factor could be Grant’s team selection. There is a lot at stake here.

Arsenal will have to win this game to keep up the pressure on United. They also want to stay ahead of Chelsea. But with four draws on the trot, the Gunners are hardly on top form. They have suffered most going forward, with the ineffective pairing of Adebayor and Bendtner getting the better of them. I think this is a game for Walcott to shine and if the young man does start, he will add some extra creativity for Arsenal.

This game could go either way. Arsenal are not in top-form but will want to stay second for the time being and keep the pressure on United. Chelsea still believe they can take the title and who can blame them? This is a home game for the Blues where they haven’t faltered for a very long time. If this game finishes in a draw, I don’t think either side will be that unhappy.
Prediction: 0-1

With Eduardo’s broken leg, William Gallas’s tantrums last week and a spat between Adebayor and Bendtner a while back, it all seems to be going topsy-turvy for the Arsenal. A heavy defeat to local rival Spurs in the Carling Cup semi-final as well as the more recent thrashing by Man Utd in the FA Cup have seen the Gunners fall flat on their faces in the domestic cups. Some will say that they are still three points clear at the top of the table after a terrific start to the season, but how long will this lead last taking into account the loss of another main striker as well as the seemingly obvious cracksthat are beginning to appear in this extremely young and fragile Arsenal side? Having said that, I’m sure we could all sympathise with skipper Gallas after last week’s game. Despite many pundits berating him for his lack of leadership, who can blame him? He had just seen one of his team-mates suffer a horrific injury and his side drop two vital points thanks to a late, late, dubious penalty. Nevertheless, Arsenal will clearly have to get back on their feet as soon as possible; otherwise they could find themselves struggling. Perhaps Theo Walcott can now finally play an important part in the Gunners’ season.

Aston Villa are maintaining their excellent form and are still in line to qualify for a European spot come the end of the season. Whether that will be a much-coveted Champions League spot we will have to wait and see, but one thing’s for sure, wherever Villa finish this season, there is a lot to expect from them next seaso, too. In fact, it would be interesting to see who is favourite to finish in the top four next campaign, regardless of the outcome of this year’s final league table. Villa have a brilliant, small squad with a very attacking style of play. Ashley Young looks one of the best wingers in the league and Agbonlahor and Carew are forming a convincing partnership up-front. Not only that, but O’Neill’s defence is rock solid. I expect Villa to finish in a Uefa Cup spot come the end of the season.

This is a very interesting game, because we all want to see how Arsenal cope after the heavy media coverage of them this week. Aston Villa will certainly want to take advantage of the situation at the Emirates. It will be fascinating to see how Arsene Wenger approaches the game and who he chooses up-front. Is Theo Walcott in with a chance of making the starting line up after his wonderful performance last week? Despite all the hype and expectancy of Arsenal to drop points once again, I firmly believe they will be too good for Villa on the day.

Prediksiku: 2-1Birmingham City v Tottenham Hotspur
After an outstanding result against League leaders Arsenal last week, Birmingham now look ready to take on Tottenham Hotspur. Alex McLeish’s side collected their most unlikely point against the Gunners and despite the horrific and sickening injury to Eduardo, Birmingham actually pushed Arsenal all the way and possibly deserved their late equaliser. Defender Taylor has come in for a bit of stick after that late tackle, but in all honesty there was nothing malicious in it and I am 100% certain that he didn’t mean to injure Eduardo. I think after a fantastic result, Birmingham must now continue to edge away from the drop zone. Of course, it is their home form which will play a major part in deciding whether they stay up or go down.

Tottenham’s magnificent Carling Cup Final victory over Chelsea ended the club’s nine-year trophy drought and proved how good Spurs actually are. That performance showed everyone why Tottenham were being tipped to finish in fourth place this season. In fact, all that needed tweaking was the defence. Woodgate and Hutton have outstanding ability and they have provided Spurs with that finishing touch. Juande Ramos is proving to be a wonderful manager. My only worry for Spurs is that now they have qualified for the Uefa Cup for next season via the Carling Cup, what is their League ambition for this season? Are they happy to concentrate on European glory and a mid-table finish, or do they still want to finish in a respectable position in the Premiership? All will be revealed soon, starting with this tricky away fixture against Birmingham City.

With Birmingham relying on home form to keep them up this season, it is quite possible they can go on and win this game. However, Tottenham are getting back to their best and if they do have any ambitions and/or targets for the League this season, I’m sure they will do all they can to win this difficult away game.Prediksiku: 1-2Derby County v Sunderland
Paul Jewell was absolutely furious last weekend as his side lost to his former club Wigan in what was quite a meaningless encounter for the Rams. In fact, Derby are definitely going down so do they really have any meaningful games left this season? Well, with Chelsea, Arsenal and Man Utd all to play the bottom club, maybe Derby fans can enjoy the prospect of playing the best in England before they go down. On a more serious note, Jewell is definitely unhappy with his side and you can expect him to sell many of his players come the summer – especially after his comment last weekend:
‘Some players are not worthy of being here and the sooner we can get them out the better.’
After making such a strong comment, you can be sure Jewell will be doing all he can to prepare the team for next season in the Championship.

It’s hardly surprising that Sunderland have failed to win an away game all season. After all, they aren’t exactly expected to do well on their travels. But, delightfully, their home form has been superb and will be the key to keeping them out of trouble this season. Nevertheless, this is an opportunity for the Sunderland players to taste victory on their travels for the first time this campaign as they play bottom club Derby, in what is now hardly a six-pointer, thanks to the Rams’ imminent fall. Sunderland have played some good stuff this season and have definitely improved since the start of the campaign. They are a battling and courageous side and so long as they can keep that up for the remainder of the season, they should stay in the Premier League.

If ever, there was a time for Derby players to stand up and be counted and to show their manager what they are really made of, this is it. Derby simply haven’t performed all season and though they have got fractionally better since Christmas, they have still been unable to win games. No doubt they will find it tough to beat Sunderland, but the Rams’ fans deserve a real performance from their side, so perhaps we could see a shock Derby win here. But that seems unlikely as Sunderland are playing quite well. They will want to pull away from the drop zone and this is their best opportunity to win an away game. I’m going for a slender Sunderland win.

Prediksiku: 1-1

Fulham v Manchester United
Fulham are in deep trouble now, as the season comes towards its climax and they are four points adrift of safety. They have signed some new players in the January transfer window, but so far this seems to have paid no dividends as the Cottagers try to escape relegation. Fulham have been desperately unlucky throughout the season on many occasions, but it is about time they stopped complaining about this and started to actually play well enough to win games regardless of any refereeing errors. Unlike some, I believe there is still quite a bit to come from Fulham this campaign and as soon as they win a game they should be on their way to safety. The question is, will they ever win a game?

United are only three points away from top spot in the Premier League thanks to their win and Arsenal’s draw. They now face quite an easy test in Fulham. It is an away game and United have been shocked a few times already this season, nonetheless, they have an outstanding squad of players and even if the likes of Ronaldo and Rooney are rested, they will always still have enough to win games. And as the season comes to a close, with United still three points off the pace, I’m sure Alex Ferguson will be telling his side to go for the goals, as it could be goal difference which is vitally important come that final day in May.

This will be a tougher game for Man Utd than expected but the only way they can drop points here is if they are complacent. Fulham have a point to prove and they must win a game and quick if they want to stay up. After all, if they fail to win and the others above them snatch points, Fulham will be further away from securing safety. Despite the threat the Cottagers could pose, I’m sure United will really go for it this game and I expect a drubbing. Prediksiku: 0-2

Manchester City v Wigan Athletic

Sven’s Manchester City side were well and truly beaten by Everton last time out. Of course, a 2-0 defeat doesn’t sound all that bad, but the manner of the game and Everton’s dominance really showed how much City will have to work if they are to secure a top six finish this season. Worse still, Martin Petrov’s late sending off during that game means he is suspended for three games. That is quite a bad thing for City as Petrov has arguably been their best and most consistent performer this season. It will be strange to see how City shape up without Petrov’s heavy influence on the wing. Personally, I think City are going through a peculiar sort of patch at the moment and unless they beat the likes of Wigan, I cannot see them finishing sixth.

Wigan are a battling side and have it all to do in order to stay in the Premier League. Their win over Derby last time out was no doubt important, but to be fair, they were playing poor opposition. Nevertheless, the Latics can now have confidence ahead of this game. In fact, if Wigan go about things the right way, they really could give City a tough game. But then again, I’m sure people will say that games like these are a bonus for Wigan and it is the teams in and around them which they will have to beat in order to stay up.

City were magnificent at home at the start of the season, but recently that form has gone out of the window. However, Sven’s men will have to pick their home form back up and soon if they are to really push for a European cup spot. If Wigan win this game they should have enough confidence to go on and avoid relegation. But I don’t think the Latics will get anything here.

Prediksiku: 2-0

Middlesbrough v Reading

Haven’t Middlesbrough been doing well in recent weeks? After going through a bad spell where it seemed inevitable they would go down, all of a sudden they find themselves seven points clear of the drop zone and in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. Agreed, they scraped their way past Sheffield United, but they still have a cup to chase. New signing Afonso Alves hasn’t really ‘clicked’ as of yet, however he has shown some signs of how good he can be. The future looks bright for Southgate and his troops.

Reading have lost eight games on the trot – a run which has seen them drop into the relegation zone and left Coppell and his men fighting for their lives. It seems clear what is going wrong. Where they were scoring a few goals at the start of the season, they are now drawing blanks in front of goal. Their defence has been terrible all season and they have been shipping goals like crazy. As for the midfield, well there’s hardly any creativity there, which is another reason for the lack of goals. And to top it all, Reading don’t have that large a squad, which leaves the manager with little choice but to play his flops every week. I can’t see Reading climbing out of the relegation zone, yet I see them getting something here.

For me, these two sides have around the same amount of quality so it is interesting to see the differences in their league position. I think Boro have really pushed forward after a couple of good results and this boost in confidence has swept them away from the relegation zone. Reading on the other hand have lost all their confidence after a couple of defeats, which has led them to lose week in, week out. They must find a win and fast. I think Boro will be shattered after that tightly contested game against Sheffield United, therefore I tip Reading to claim a point.Prediksiku: 2-1

Newcastle United v Blackburn Rovers

I think that everyone from Newcastle downwards have a chance of being relegated. Newcastle haven’t tasted victory since the arrival of King Kev and the fans are beginning to wonder what all the fuss over his appointment was about. The bottom line is, the Magpies are only six points away from the relegation zone and can still get sucked into that dogfight if they fail to win this game. Newcastle are losing too many games and the players don’t really seemed to be bothered. Also, the likes of Wigan are adapted to a relegation battle more than Newcastle, which should send further warning signals to the Magpies’ backroom staff. There are a lot of problems for Newcastle and the only way these can be solved is if they were to actually win a game.

Ninth-placed Blackburn Rovers are only five points away from a Uefa Cup spot with eleven games remaining. For all who watched Rovers at the start of the campaign, you will know the Lancashire side are more than capable of going on a good winning streak and could possibly sneak into sixth spot. But in order for that to happen, Rovers will have to win this game and other fixtures similar to it. Of course, they have a wonderful squad, which should be able to achieve this. Samba and Nelsen are brilliant at the back and protect fantastic Friedel in goal. Rovers have an exceptional pair of wingers in Bentley and Pedersen and with Santa Cruz and McCarthy up front, Blackburn are guaranteed a lot of goals. Hopefully, they can really go on and push for that final Uefa Cup spot.

Newcastle’s defence was absolutely shocking against Manchester United in their recent defeat and due to this fact I see it difficult for them to get anything from this game, even though they are at home. Blackburn are a tough side to beat and can really hurt teams when they go forward.Prediksiku: 0-1 /seri peluang ada di blackburn. dari 5 pertemuan sebelumnya di kandang newcaste.3 x tim tamu menang.

West Ham United v Chelsea

West Ham are too far from a European spot at the moment, however they do have a game in hand, against Liverpool, to play. The Hammers have impressed this season with their ability to play without their best players and they must continue this if they are to finish sixth. However, even if they finish tenth, I’m sure fans and players will realise they have a lot to build on, so expect the Hammers to seriously challenge for a top-six finish next campaign. As for now, they just have to get through the season.

Avram Grant’s team selection against Tottenham for the Carling Cup Final was appalling and it showed. However, we must realise Chelsea have a full squad of world-class players so there will always be someone disappointed with not being named in the first XI. Saying that, why Joe Cole didn’t start the game and why Anelka played wide only Avram Grant knows. But as they say, that is in the past now and the former Israeli coach will now have to show his expertise and try to help Chelsea push for the Premier League title as well as the two other competitions. Certainly, if Grant decides to stick with his most consistent players, Chelsea should be good enough to do well this season.

There’s always something about West Ham when they play the ‘big’ sides. They beat Liverpool and Manchester United and with Chelsea going into this game under pressure after last weekend’s shambles, the Hammers will feel they have a reasonable chance of getting something here. Nevertheless, I think Grant is intelligent enough to recall his best players and the Blues should edge a win.Prediksiku: 1-1 / SERI ATAU WESTHAM MENANG

Sunday 2 March

Bolton Wanderers v Liverpool

Good old physical Bolton are ready to battle it out with Liverpool this weekend for three league points. After a 4-1 thrashing by Blackburn last week, Megson’s Trotters will be looking to cause an upset and win this hard home game. Bolton are a tough-tackling side and do have the battling spirit to win games. But of course, since Nicolas Anelka has left they have hardly had that attacking influence and so struggle in front of goal. But Bolton can annoy some teams with their strength and they will certainly have to use this against Liverpool.

The Reds are well and truly chasing fourth spot and with Rafa’s men playing a week later than everyone else in the Champions League, he will surely pick his strongest team for this game. Liverpool have shown how good they are in selected games this season and it would be nice of the Reds could bag three or four goals here just to boost confidence. Bolton will be a hard game, but Liverpool have enough attacking quality to threaten the Trotters’ defence, without being threatened themselves.

The outcome of this game will depend on who has the better attack. Fernando Torres is one who could change this game. I can see tackles and cards but only a few breakthroughs, which Liverpool, rather than Bolton, will take advantage of.

Fourth-placed Everton brushed aside contenders Man City in their last game and now have a tie against another top-four hopeful. Moyes has done a fantastic job with the Toffees, which is mainly the reason why they are still in the Uefa Cup too. I think Yakubu has proved to be an exceptional signing and Joleon Lescott is definitely making a good claim to be named in the England squad. Similar to Blackburn, Everton have an adaptive team with lots of top-class, attacking players so they will always score goals. Everton are going in the right direction, but as for whether they will finish fourth, I think we will have to wait until their crunch fixture against Liverpool until we can determine that.

Portsmouth are quite similar to Everton, but I think Redknapp’s side have slipped a bit recently. They are no longer the goal-fest, free-scoring team, nonetheless Defoe is impressing in his first few games for Pompey. I’m sure Pompey will finish the season well, but unfortunately, I do not see them qualifying for Europe.

Nevertheles, I think Portsmouth will win this game. They really turn up away from home and though Everton are fabulous at the minute, I think Portsmouth can stop them. Defoe is playing well and I see Everton really dominating this game, but Portsmouth grabbing a win.prediksiku everton menang – tidak ada kamus seri dalam 10 pertemuan kedua tim sebelumnya baik tandang maupun kandang

This week sees some top action in the League, but it is the Carling Cup Final which will take many of the headlines. Tottenham’s drubbing of Arsenal in the semi-final showed their quality and also the damage they could do to Chelsea on Sunday. Chelsea on the other hand have performed well without their best players this season and are proving extremely hard to beat.

Saturday 23 FebruaryBirmingham City v Arsenal
Birmingham City will be a team looking to edge away from the relegation zone when they face league leaders Arsenal this weekend. City are only out of the bottom three thanks to a better goal difference than eighteenth-placed Reading. However, Alex McLeish’s side must rack up a couple of wins and quickly if they are to stay in the Premier League. Although it will be a tough task to beat a quality team such as Arsenal, Birmingham have proved their battling spirit remains one of their best attributes, a reason why they haven’t been thrashed by other teams this season. If they go into the game with a positive frame of mind, City could get a point, as Arsenal could be shattered after a couple of tough cup games.

Wenger’s side’s lack of confidence showed in their stalemate against European Champions AC Milan. They had a few good chances especially towards the end of the game, but just couldn’t put them away. Prior to that game, they were thrashed 4-0 by Manchester United in the FA Cup, perhaps a reason why they were so cautious during the Champions League tie. But now is not the time to show caution as Arsenal embark on a very important month of their season. They will have to beat Milan (or get a score draw) at the San Siro in order to stay in the Champions League, and the next few games in the Premiership will prove pivotal to Arsenal’s chances of reclaiming the title.

With Arsenal five points clear at the top of the league and Birmingham struggling at the other end of the table, the outcome of this game is perhaps quite a predictable one. I’m pretty sure Arsenal will win this game, however I am also confident Birmingham will make it tough for the Gunners. Birmingham really set their stall out for the big games and are quite hard to beat under such circumstances. Arsenal will be very tired after playing United and Milan within the space of a few days.

Blackburn’s chances of finishing in the top four and hence qualifying for the Champions League are now very slim, but they are only five points off a Uefa Cup spot. Rovers have hardly been mentioned recently, thanks to no more speculation regarding Mark Hughes future. However, I think they are capable of quietly making it into the top six. This will require a string of good performances from the club, but I wouldn’t put it beyond them.

Gary Megson’s Bolton put in a battling display to see off Atletico Madrid in the Uefa Cup and therefore reach the last 16 of the competition. European glory is Bolton’s only chance to shine in such a terrible season and their aggressive style of play adapts them well for this competition. It also gives the team a breather from the relegation pressures of the Premiership. In fact, I think if Bolton can keep up their high level of performance in the Uefa Cup, this will boost their confidence for the Premier League ties, which gives Bolton a psychological advantage over the likes of Reading, Fulham and the rest.

The old local derby is back and this is always a fiercely contested game between two fairly aggressive sides. Expect the tackles to be flying in everywhere and perhaps a sending off or two! I think Blackburn have the edge, seeing as many of Bolton’s players will be tired after a difficult tie against Atletico.

Fulham are only three points away from safety and with a host of new signings made in last month’s transfer window, it finally seems as if they have a chance of staying up. Though the likes of Litmanen are old-proven heroes, their experience will surely help Fulham fight for survival. The Cottagers’ away form has been absolutely woeful; therefore this home game against West Ham will suit them perfectly.

Like Blackburn, West Ham are another side not far of a Uefa Cup spot. The Hammers are seven points adrift of sixth spot and have a game in hand over many of their rivals. West Ham have thoroughly impressed this campaign, beating the likes of Liverpool to maintain a top ten spot, despite many of their best players being injured for different parts of the season. And it is injury again which rules out Craig Bellamy for the next six weeks, meaning West Ham will have to keep going without arguably one of their best players. Nevertheless, the Hammers have done without Bellamy for much of the season and have other attacking options available for this game and the rest of the season, as they push for that vital sixth spot.

Fulham are really in for a tough time for the remainder of the season and though they have signed some experienced players, it seems as if they have left it just that touch too late to spark a survival spree. West Ham themselves will have a few more tough tests, which if they can get past, should see them in the top six come the end of the season.

What a funny old week it has been for Liverpool. Once again, we saw the Reds rise to the occasion against Inter Milan, beating the Italian Champions 2-0, resulting in Inter’s first defeat in FIVE months! Surely that win will give Liverpool the impetus to go on and finish fourth in the Premier League. I think so long as the media give Rafa Benitez a break from all the hype surrounding his job, Liverpool will be in with a great chance of winning the European Cup as well as finishing fourth.

Boro seem to be safe from relegation now, lying in 12th place, 7 points above the relegation zone. And what a revival that is too. Three months ago, Southgate’s side were tipped to go down after suffering an unacceptable run of form. Now though, they are still in the FA Cup and the signing of Afonso Alves means they have a great goalscorer on their hands. This should provide them with a good chance of securing a reasonable mid-table finish this year.

Liverpool should be full of confidence after their midweek victory and probably they will give Boro a real thrashing this weekend, just to show that they are the real deal. However, Southgate’s side will make it hard for the Reds and after such poor home form, Boro could leave with something from Anfield. But I think Liverpool are a great side and have a lot to prove over the next month or so.

One team who are in real danger of being sucked into that relegation dogfight down at the bottom is Newcastle. Keegan’s return to the club hasn’t sparked the sort of revival we were hoping for and they now really need to find a win quickly just to restore a bit of faith in the team. A home game against Champions Man Utd won’t exactly help the situation, but a good performance and slender defeat will be OK.

United are in a funny old situation. They thrashed leaders Arsenal in the FA Cup, which all but proved they are the best team in England at the moment. However, they must now use that morale-boosting win to reclaim top spot. That will be a difficult task, seeing as the Red Devils are five points off the pace. But, if anyone is to pip Arsenal to the league title, it is United.

Newcastle are struggling and haven’t been able to win recently, whereas United are in fairly good form, though their European stalemate against Lyon was quite disappointing. However, with the likes of Ronaldo, Rooney and Tevez, they should have enough quality to beat Newcastle.

Prediction: 0-2

Portsmouth v Sunderland

We will see a very strong Portsmouth side for the rest of the season now, thanks to some great new signings and the return of all the African players. And it is now when Portsmouth will have to shine, if they are to at least finish in a Uefa Cup spot this season. Redknapp’s side are currently three points away from fifth, sixth and seventh spot so will be pushing for those spots until the end of the season. They have signed Milan Baros and Jermain Defoe, which should give them enough attacking options to win games and comfortably. I think Portsmouth look good at the moment and with the FA Cup to go for as well, who knows, Portsmouth could add some silverware to their trophy cabinet this season. It’s the least they deserve.

Sunderland’s staggering home form is going to keep them in the Premiership this season. They have done exceptionally well at home and have collected all three points in games where we would expect them to draw or lose. The Black Cats always had enough bite about them to stay up and though they are only four points above the drop zone, they can afford to lose some away games, so long as they keep up their good performances in front of their own crowd.

Portsmouth have been rubbish at home this season, whereas Sunderland have been quite poor away, This should therefore be an interesting game. I think Portsmouth are really strong and have a good attacking squad and though I expect Sunderland to make it tough for Redknapp’s men, I’m sure Pompey will grab a win.

Prediction: 2-1

Reading v Aston Villa

The Royals slipped into the relegation zone after a run of straight defeats and they are now in deep trouble. Reading’s main strength earlier in the season was that they could score goals. Now that the goals seem to have dried up, they are struggling. In fact, I think they have got away with it lightly as recently they have only been losing by a slender margin, when they have deserved to be thrashed. All this adds up to a lack of confidence and low-morale. Steve Coppell will have to get his men in the right frame of mind for the remainder of the campaign.

Villa are only three points adrift of a Champions League spot and after such brilliance this season, I think they deserve it. They are strong going forward with Carew, Young and Agbonlahor providing real pace. Laursen and Mellberg at the back have kept them solid and hard to beat. Their midfield is also reasonably secure, especially with Gareth Barry playing exceptionally well. It would be hard on Villa if they didn’t finish in the top six this season.

Reading are at home and their only chance of survival is by winning games at the Madejski. But Villa have shown they have what it takes to punish teams this season and if Reading put in another terrible display, they can expect to lose this game by a large margin.

Prediction: 1-3

Wigan Athletic v Derby County

Wigan have it all to go for now, standing one point away from the drop zone. They need to win three more games before the end of the season to realistically stay safe. And with Derby up next, they should be reasonably confident. If Wigan fail to beat Derby this weekend, they deserve to go down!

Derby are playing for pride now and that’s why they are making it difficult for other sides to beat them. No doubt they will make it difficult for Wigan too but Derby have only won one game this season, and I can’t see them winning here.

Wigan must win here if they are to stand a chance of surviving. Derby aren’t even playing for survival now, so the Latics have an excellent chance of winning this game.
Prediction: 2-1

Monday 25 February

Manchester City v Everton

Manchester City are only three points away from Everton and therefore only a win away from a Champions League spot. City seemed to have gone a bit dry recently, but a win against Manchester United in the Premiership last time out shows they are quite a good side. And with Benjani now in the side, they have a good striker who will be able to finish off any attack-minded opportunities City have. I don’t think Man City will finish in the top six, due to the quality of Villa, Liverpool and Everton, but I expect them still to push for that spot for the rest of the season.

Everton’s heavy European win will give their forward men lots of confidence for the rest of the season. Though they weren’t playing a very good side, it puts them in the right frame of mind to finish fourth this season. But if Everton lose this game, they could drop out of the top four.

This game looks likely to end in a draw, given both sides’ late good form. A draw would also suit Liverpool amongst others, however I’m sure both managers would take a draw before and after the game.

Prediction: 1-1

CARLING CUP FINAL
Sunday 24 February
Chelsea v Tottenham Hotspur

Chelsea have been very good in the Carling Cup over past years and this a chance for Avram Grant to win his first trophy at the club. Don’t forget, Chelsea are still well and truly up for the quadruple. They may rest Terry and Lampard, but over the last month they have proved they have got quality enough in their squad to cope well without these players. Still, if one of the two players does play, Chelsea will be very strong. Michael Ballack is in good shape and with Drogba and Anelka set to start up front, who can put their money against the Blues to win?

Spurs’ revival under Ramos continues, and their midweek victory aggregate in the Uefa Cup will give them further confidence ahead of this game, although their performance against Slavia Prague was uninspiring. The semi-final win over Arsenal was a real morale-booster and showed exactly how good Spurs can be. They have an exceptional forward line and with Woodgate and Hutton at the back, they should be quite solid and soak up any Chelsea pressure. Spurs have as good a chance as ever to gain some glory.

I honestly think Tottenham will push Chelsea all the way. When Spurs are at their best they really do perform. Chelsea have a top class side and are expected to win. Due to this, I think this game will go to extra time, though Chelsea will win eventually. Expect goals and a quality game!

League leaders Arsenal travel to title rivals Manchester United for what is undoubtedly the tie of the Fifth Round. The two have become great rivals since Arsene Wenger’s arrival in the country in 1996 and this clash has all the makings of a classic.

United and Arsenal are the two most successful club’s in FA Cup history with a combined haul of 21 trophies from 35 finals. Ferguson has won five of them, Wenger four.

The winner of this tie will be among the favourites to add to those trophies because these are clearly the two best sides in the country this season.

Arsenal were tipped by many pundits to finish outside the top this term, but as Gunners fans say, ‘Arsene knows’. Wenger has created a team on a shoestring budjet that have excelled beyond even his own great expectations for them.

Arsenal are playing with such energy and style that it is difficult to believe that the club actually made a net profit in the summer’s transfer window. Goals are arriving from every part of the team with defensive midfielder Mathieu Flamini and centre back William Gallas scoring vital goals already this campaign.

The main man at the moment is Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor who has stepped out of Robin Van Persie’s shadow to produce a stunning run of form where it seems everything his hits turns to goals. With excellent service provided to him by the subtle midfield promptings of Hleb and Fabregas, Adebayor will look to add to his winner at Old Trafford last season, when the Gunners were in a preiod of transition. A huge boost for Arsenal is the return of Kolo Toure at centre-back.

The powerful Ivorian has returned from the African Cup of Nations just in time as Wenger may be without three defenders that started Monday’s win over Blackburn at the Emirates.

Returning Rooney Bolsters United

United will be boosted by the return to the team of both Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra, and both players are key to the way United play. Without the energetic duo last week, United appeared flat as they fell to defeat at home to local rivals Manchester City which sees the champions trail Arsenal in the league by five points. Louis Saha is also back after six weeks to provide options up front, something they sorely missed against City.

United will be desperate to put a marker down in the title race by knocking the Gunners out of the cup this weekend. United just never really got going in last week’s derby, and looked unusually sloppy at the back where the usually dependable duo of Ferdinand and Vidic each had their worst game of the season so far.

It could be argued that they missed having a shield infront of them, and either Michael Carrick or Owen Hargreaves should return to the starting line up in an attampt to quell Arsenal’s quick passign attacking midfield.

Alex Ferguson has laughed off the distance between these sides at the top, arguing with some credibility that Arsenal have the more difficult run in and far less experience. The fiery Scot will hope that his side can back up his argument by beating his old enemy Arsene Wenger’s side, and continue in the hunt for a second treble, which Ferguson has mentioned at various points this campaign.

It is hard to recall when United last lost consecutive home games, but that is a fait which awaits them unless they produce a much improved performance against a rampant Arsenal. The sides drew 2-2 at the Emirates earlier in the campaign, and another stalemate can be expected again at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Manchester United Long term casualties Michael Silvestre (knee, Gary Neville (calf) and Ben Foster (knee) are all missing, but the short term problems have all been solved.

As mentioned, Wayne Rooney, Loius Saha and Patrice Evra are all available again. Midfielders Michael Carrick and Owen Hargreaves as well as Evra and Rooney could return to the starting eleven after sitting out last weekends defeat to City.

Jens Lehmann should continue in goal as he has been chosen for all Arsenal’s FA Cup ties this season even if first choice Manuel Almunia recovers from a virus in time. Lively midfielder Tomas Rosicky is expected to remain sidelined with a hamstring injury and Denilson (hamstring) and Abou Diaby join him in the stands.

Dutch forward Robin Van Persie (thigh) is still missing, although with Adebayor in such fine form Arsenal are not missing there star forward as much as they would have anticipated. Full-backs Gael Clichy (knee) and Bakary Sagna (personal reasons) could miss out and Johan Djourou (groin) and Philip Senderos (thigh) are also doubtful.

Manchester United – Wayne Rooney, although not the most technically gifted of United’s attacking talent, has shown his importance to the team in his absences so far this season. His feisty presence was sorely missed in last weekend’s derby defeat, and United never manage to play at as high tempo when Rooney is missing. His return will be a welcome boost and should allow a little more space for the skillfull Tevez and Ronaldo to exploit.

Arsenal – Emmanuel Adebayor is currently the hottest striker in the Premier League, and is enjoying a sensational run of goalscoring form that has seen the Togolese hitman find the net nine times in his last seven Premier League games, plus two in the last round against Newcastle. Adebayor on this form is unplayable and he will cause Ferdinand and Vidic all sorts of problems if they perform as sluggishly as they did last week.

PREDICTION

A game that could go either way between the two top sides in the country. Surely United will have to show an improvement on their lacklustre derdy day defeat last week, but in present form it is hard to back against Arsenal. A score draw and an unwanted replay may be the outcome of this mouthwatering cup tie for old enemies Ferguson and Wenger.